What Clothes Suit Petites? - A Guide to Clothing for Petites

October 18, 2023

Understanding the Petite Body Type

Before we delve into the specifics of clothing for petites, it's important to understand what being petite means. Contrary to popular belief, being petite does not necessarily mean being tiny or thin. In fashion terms, 'Petite' refers to women who are 5'3" or under in height. Petite women come in all shapes and sizes - from curvy to athletic, slender to plus size.

The main challenge for Petite women is finding clothes that don't overwhelm their smaller stature. Standard sizes often have longer torsos, wider shoulders, and longer inseams than what a Petite frame requires. This can result in clothes that look baggy or ill-fitting.

Choosing the Right Clothing for Petites

When shopping for clothing for Petites, there are certain things you should keep in mind:

1. Fit is Key: The most important rule when dressing a Petite body type is ensuring your clothes fit well. Oversized garments can swallow up your frame and make you appear shorter than you are. Look for clothing specifically designed for Petites as these will have shorter inseams, narrower shoulders, and shorter torsos.

2. Avoid Big, Busy Patterns: Big patterns look disproportionate compared to your smaller frame, and won't flatter you. Plain, block colours, vertical stripes and small patterns will suit you best.

3. Embrace High-Waisted Styles: High-waisted trousers, skirts, and shorts can elongate your legs and make you appear taller. Pair them with a cropped or tucked-in top to enhance the effect.

4. Choose the Right Shoes: Shoes can play a big role in enhancing your height. Heels or wedges can obviously add inches, but avoid ankle straps as they can visually cut off your legs and make them appear shorter. If you're wearing flats, avoid bulky trainers. Slim, pointed toe flats work best.

The Best Clothing Pieces for Petites

Now that we've covered some general tips, let's look at specific clothing pieces that work well for petite body types:

1. Petite Dresses: Look for dresses with an empire waist or a belt at the smallest part of your waist to create an elongated silhouette. Avoid long, voluminous dresses as they can overwhelm your frame.

2. Petite Jeans: Choose jeans with a higher rise to lengthen your legs. Slim or straight-leg styles work best as they create a streamlined silhouette. Hems that hit at or just above the ankle will look the most polished.

3. Petite Tops: Cropped tops or tucked in blouses work best. Anything that drags past your waist will make your legs appear shorter (and your torso longer), which may not flatter you. V-necklines and vertical stripes can also help create an illusion of height.

Dressing a Petite body type doesn't have to be challenging if you know what to look out for. Remember, fit is key when shopping for clothing for Petites - always choose pieces that flatter your unique shape and proportions rather than overwhelming them.

With these tips in mind, you'll be able to curate a wardrobe that not only fits perfectly but also makes you feel confident and stylish every day!